Our client is a privately held, clinical-stage, pre-IPO biotechnology company pioneering the development of vaccines through its investigational proprietary technology platform. Our client is primarily focused on applying the platform in oncology, where it could potentially have broad applications, including targeting viral antigens, cancer antigens, and producing antigen-derived antibodies as biologics. The company has built a pipeline of four wholly-owned oncology programs, the lead of which is in a Phase 2 clinical study for Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM).

The incumbent will be an innovative and highly motivated Scientist working on the nucleic acid vaccine design and development within the infectious disease (ID) research division. The scientist will have the opportunity to identify and interrogate the pathogen-associated immunostimulatory target pathways using cutting-edge technologies and novel approaches to enrich the Platform pipeline. Prior experience in ID viral vaccines and immunotherapy approaches is required, preferably in nucleic acid (DNA/RNA) based vaccines. Reporting to the Director R&D and/or company CSO, the scientist will work closely with the management team, interface with scientists, participate in company-wide R&D project teams, and work in a multidisciplinary environment to advance our mission on infectious disease vaccines.

The duties of this position will involve supporting and possibly leading the ID division to develop the platform-based vaccines for infectious diseases with unmet needs and utilizing in vivo mouse models with in vitro cell-based immunoassays to elucidate the mechanism of action of these vaccines. The candidate must have in-depth and hands-on expertise in immunoassays, flow cytometric analysis of immune cells, advanced techniques to interrogate vaccine efficacy, and have experience in animal models used for vaccine research. The candidate is also expected to work with CROs in exploring, setting up, and managing outsourced research. Working both independently and collaboratively in a matrixed environment to design, execute, interpret, and communicate vaccine studies for projects utilizing good scientific judgment and strong team skills. Prior technical staff supervisory experience is preferred.

Essential Functions

• Expertise in current cutting-edge technology practices and platforms used in ID anti-viral vaccine development and a deep understanding of humoral and cellular immunology as it relates to host defense is required.
• Experience in various immunoassays is required, expertise in microbial antigen (viral/bacterial and other pathogens) discovery/design is preferred.
• Experience with in vivo rodent models for testing vaccine efficacy is required.
• Ability to independently design experiments, make detailed observations, analyze data, interpret results, and deliver results timely.
• Excellent presentation and oral and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to prepare precise technical summaries, protocols, SOPs, study reports, and maintenance of appropriate documentation and record-keeping under a GLP-like work environment.
• Ability to prioritize and work in a fast-paced and diverse environment.
• A strong sense of urgency, initiative, ethics/integrity, and innovation is required.
• Experience in nucleic acid (DNA, mRNA, siRNA) vaccine design is strongly preferred.
• Experience in the drug/vaccine development process is preferred.
• Prior experience with regulatory aspects and process development of drug discovery is advantageous.

Required Education and Experience

• Ph.D. in the appropriate discipline required (e.g., immunology, vaccinology, cell biology, molecular biology)
• Minimum 6+ years of experience in viral and related vaccine biology (industry experience preferred)
• Hands-on experience in multiple immunological techniques, ability to apply them appropriately in all aspects of vaccine research
• Demonstrated ability in critical thinking, advancing research with a focus on translational aspects of vaccine development
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, ability to contribute individually and work well in a multi-disciplinary team environment